Psychiatrists in 64068

Photo of Brayden Willis, DO, Psychiatrist
Brayden Willis
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Liberty, MO 64068
Accepting NEW patients! With appointments IN-PERSON or TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Willis is a Physician Psychiatrist, dual board-certified in general and child & adolescent psychiatry. He is a real advocate for his patients, and they respond well to his approach. Parents value that Dr. Willis gives adequate time to: build rapport/trust, allow for all participants' voices to be heard, resolve concerns, provide therapy when possible, establish accurate diagnoses, implement effective individualized treatment plans, & safely manage any medications. The result is that all involved feel confident that they are receiving the highest quality of care.
Accepting NEW patients! With appointments IN-PERSON or TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Willis is a Physician Psychiatrist, dual board-certified in general and child & adolescent psychiatry. He is a real advocate for his patients, and they respond well to his approach. Parents value that Dr. Willis gives adequate time to: build rapport/trust, allow for all participants' voices to be heard, resolve concerns, provide therapy when possible, establish accurate diagnoses, implement effective individualized treatment plans, & safely manage any medications. The result is that all involved feel confident that they are receiving the highest quality of care.
(816) 323-6124 View (816) 323-6124
Photo of Cynthia Ruth Heck, DNP , PMHNP-, BC, LPC-, NCC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cynthia Ruth Heck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-, BC, LPC-, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Liberty, MO 64068
Hello friend, I am glad you found me. I, too, have sought help for my mental health. I understand the courage it takes to hope, heal, and trust the helpers. No matter how dark it seems now, there is always hope! You do not have to fight alone. It would be my honor to partner with you to help you discover that hope, health, healing, and wholeness is for you too.
Hello friend, I am glad you found me. I, too, have sought help for my mental health. I understand the courage it takes to hope, heal, and trust the helpers. No matter how dark it seems now, there is always hope! You do not have to fight alone. It would be my honor to partner with you to help you discover that hope, health, healing, and wholeness is for you too.
(816) 203-0571 View (816) 203-0571
Photo of Molly Oligbo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Molly Oligbo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Liberty, MO 64068  (Online Only)
Molly Oligbo, Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, brings expertise in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychiatric assessment. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri Kansas City (2013) and a Master of Science in Nursing from the same institution (2017), Molly has dedicated her career to comprehensive mental health services for adults. Her experience spans community mental health settings, psychiatric consults in medical floors, and a passion for establishing therapeutic relationships.
Molly Oligbo, Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, brings expertise in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychiatric assessment. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri Kansas City (2013) and a Master of Science in Nursing from the same institution (2017), Molly has dedicated her career to comprehensive mental health services for adults. Her experience spans community mental health settings, psychiatric consults in medical floors, and a passion for establishing therapeutic relationships.
(913) 404-2304 View (913) 404-2304

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Vilash Reddy - One Life Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
One Life Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Vilash Reddy, M.D. I grew up in California and trained at Washington University in St. Louis. I specialize in treating children aged 6 and older in Missouri and Kansas exclusively via telehealth appointments. My average wait time for new patients is 3 weeks. I diagnose and treat a range of developmental, behavioral, and mood disorders. I offer medication management as well as therapy and I believe in using holistic, natural remedies whenever possible. I treat ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, autism, intellectual disability, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc
My name is Dr. Vilash Reddy, M.D. I grew up in California and trained at Washington University in St. Louis. I specialize in treating children aged 6 and older in Missouri and Kansas exclusively via telehealth appointments. My average wait time for new patients is 3 weeks. I diagnose and treat a range of developmental, behavioral, and mood disorders. I offer medication management as well as therapy and I believe in using holistic, natural remedies whenever possible. I treat ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, autism, intellectual disability, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc
(816) 578-0985 View (816) 578-0985
Photo of Silverus Kimeli, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Silverus Kimeli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
I am a dual board certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science Nursing from The University of Oklahoma in 2006. I have worked in several acute mental care units and critical care units prior to pursuing graduate studies. I received my Master of Science in Nursing in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati in 2019 and Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) from Saginaw Valley State University in 2021.
I am a dual board certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science Nursing from The University of Oklahoma in 2006. I have worked in several acute mental care units and critical care units prior to pursuing graduate studies. I received my Master of Science in Nursing in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati in 2019 and Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) from Saginaw Valley State University in 2021.
(913) 808-3179 View (913) 808-3179
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Francis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Elizabeth Francis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64101
I graduated with my Masters in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialty and Doctorate in Nursing (DNP) degrees from Duke University, ranked the best graduate nursing program in the country for the last 4 years. I am an APNA board member in the Kansas state chapter, have published research in the Journal of Emergency Nurses, and am adjunct faculty in Duke's graduate nursing program. I provide evidence-based psychiatric care to help people achieve their goals. This includes creating an empathetic, safe environment. Many patients value a treatment approach that is holistic and considers their unique needs.
I graduated with my Masters in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialty and Doctorate in Nursing (DNP) degrees from Duke University, ranked the best graduate nursing program in the country for the last 4 years. I am an APNA board member in the Kansas state chapter, have published research in the Journal of Emergency Nurses, and am adjunct faculty in Duke's graduate nursing program. I provide evidence-based psychiatric care to help people achieve their goals. This includes creating an empathetic, safe environment. Many patients value a treatment approach that is holistic and considers their unique needs.
(913) 386-5638 View (913) 386-5638
Photo of Brandon Brewer, MD, Psychiatrist
Brandon Brewer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64112  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW patients! I am a physician psychiatrist with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. This means that I have a well-rounded view of the various factors influencing your mental health. I evaluate and treat mental health issues in children, adolescents and adults. I conduct short psychotherapy sessions during encounters with my patients. My goal is to give you 100% satisfaction in caring for your mental health needs.
Accepting NEW patients! I am a physician psychiatrist with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. This means that I have a well-rounded view of the various factors influencing your mental health. I evaluate and treat mental health issues in children, adolescents and adults. I conduct short psychotherapy sessions during encounters with my patients. My goal is to give you 100% satisfaction in caring for your mental health needs.
(573) 363-2199 View (573) 363-2199
Photo of Amanda Kingston - Brave Counseling & Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist
Brave Counseling & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64101
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
(573) 766-4587 View (573) 766-4587
Photo of Moses Tabe Ambilichu - Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
(573) 269-3946 View (573) 269-3946
Photo of Sonni Elliott - Sunrise Psychiatry -TMS Center, MD, Psychiatrist
Sunrise Psychiatry -TMS Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108
Ask yourself these questions.... Do you have difficulty trying to treat Depression? Tried multiple meds which have failed or been difficult to tolerate? Want an option for depression treatment other than medications? Want to lower the number of medications long term? Have a continued goal of quality of life improvement or possible remission from Depression? If so, consider TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
Ask yourself these questions.... Do you have difficulty trying to treat Depression? Tried multiple meds which have failed or been difficult to tolerate? Want an option for depression treatment other than medications? Want to lower the number of medications long term? Have a continued goal of quality of life improvement or possible remission from Depression? If so, consider TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
(913) 404-8677 View (913) 404-8677
Photo of Kelly J Neland - Reflections Health Services, LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reflections Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64064
My name is Kelly Neland and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have completed graduate and post-graduate study in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychological assessment and evaluation. I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive authority. Online appointment requests can be made at www.reflectionshealthservices.com.
My name is Kelly Neland and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have completed graduate and post-graduate study in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychological assessment and evaluation. I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive authority. Online appointment requests can be made at www.reflectionshealthservices.com.
(816) 744-1903 View (816) 744-1903
Photo of Steven Matthew Rains - Steven Rains NP LLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steven Rains NP LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111
My patient care is built on empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices. I believe that every person has a unique story which deserves individualized care. I became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner to treat emotional pain, assist clients and their families adapt to mental health changes, and to normalize mental health in our community. I use a team-based approach to mental health where the client’s experience and the provider’s skills meet to create the greatest results.
My patient care is built on empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices. I believe that every person has a unique story which deserves individualized care. I became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner to treat emotional pain, assist clients and their families adapt to mental health changes, and to normalize mental health in our community. I use a team-based approach to mental health where the client’s experience and the provider’s skills meet to create the greatest results.
(913) 354-8788 View (913) 354-8788
Photo of Dr. Asif A Uddin, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Asif A Uddin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64116
I completed my residency at KU, and went on to pursue triple board certification in psychiatry, internal medicine, and obesity medicine. I pursued combined training to improve the stigma of psychiatry and bridge the gap. Despite the prevalence of psychiatric disorders, they are often written off and not considered as serious as medical diagnoses. However, both from treating it regularly, as well as my personal battle with bipolar disorder, for example, I know it can be just as debilitating as any medical condition out there. My own mental health journey uniquely allows me to relate and empathize to provide the best care possible.
I completed my residency at KU, and went on to pursue triple board certification in psychiatry, internal medicine, and obesity medicine. I pursued combined training to improve the stigma of psychiatry and bridge the gap. Despite the prevalence of psychiatric disorders, they are often written off and not considered as serious as medical diagnoses. However, both from treating it regularly, as well as my personal battle with bipolar disorder, for example, I know it can be just as debilitating as any medical condition out there. My own mental health journey uniquely allows me to relate and empathize to provide the best care possible.
(816) 441-3605 View (816) 441-3605
Photo of Quentin Chambers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Quentin Chambers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64102  (Online Only)
Hi, if you are dealing with issues from lack of focus, ability to pay attention. If you are dealing with a form of substance abuse or anxiety. I am here to help. I don't just give you medicine. I work with you to determine if you even need medication. Maybe it's certain vitamins that are missing in your system, we will discover and treat it together. If you are looking for someone who will be attentive to your concerns, I am the right provider for you.
Hi, if you are dealing with issues from lack of focus, ability to pay attention. If you are dealing with a form of substance abuse or anxiety. I am here to help. I don't just give you medicine. I work with you to determine if you even need medication. Maybe it's certain vitamins that are missing in your system, we will discover and treat it together. If you are looking for someone who will be attentive to your concerns, I am the right provider for you.
(515) 608-8787 View (515) 608-8787
Photo of Dr. Jayaprabha V Nair - Sunlight Psychiatry and Wellness, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Sunlight Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64121  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Jaya LaFontaine. I am a board certified Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist, seeing people of all ages. I provide holistic, integrative virtual telepsychiatry services in the state of Missouri. Psychiatric practice has become solely about medicating symptoms rather than addressing the cause. I specialize in reducing polypharmacy, trauma-informed psychotherapy, and providing a safe, inclusive, confidential, and compassionate space for my patients who want to heal rather than numb their pain.
My name is Dr. Jaya LaFontaine. I am a board certified Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist, seeing people of all ages. I provide holistic, integrative virtual telepsychiatry services in the state of Missouri. Psychiatric practice has become solely about medicating symptoms rather than addressing the cause. I specialize in reducing polypharmacy, trauma-informed psychotherapy, and providing a safe, inclusive, confidential, and compassionate space for my patients who want to heal rather than numb their pain.
Photo of Amy Baremore, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Baremore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64106
Are you overwhelmed with stress, fighting depression or paralyzed with anxiety? Do you struggle with mood swings, irritability or agitation? Are you having difficulty falling asleep at night or are addictions keeping you from reaching your goals? You are not alone.
Are you overwhelmed with stress, fighting depression or paralyzed with anxiety? Do you struggle with mood swings, irritability or agitation? Are you having difficulty falling asleep at night or are addictions keeping you from reaching your goals? You are not alone.
(417) 783-3695 View (417) 783-3695
Photo of Rasha Elkady, MD, Psychiatrist
Rasha Elkady
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64101  (Online Only)
I have been enjoying my work in psychiatry for the past 15 years and I wanted to provide a new and unique service to patients. I provide weekend and afternoon online appointments from the comfort of your own home. The importance of mental health cannot be stressed enough so why make it such a hassle to see a psychiatrist? At one simple click of a button, you can see a psychiatrist and receive a diagnosis tailored just for you. Times are changing, let’s make life easy.
I have been enjoying my work in psychiatry for the past 15 years and I wanted to provide a new and unique service to patients. I provide weekend and afternoon online appointments from the comfort of your own home. The importance of mental health cannot be stressed enough so why make it such a hassle to see a psychiatrist? At one simple click of a button, you can see a psychiatrist and receive a diagnosis tailored just for you. Times are changing, let’s make life easy.
(573) 799-3693 View (573) 799-3693
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Kimberly Danielle, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Danielle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64113  (Online Only)
Welcome to Klarity Wellness! My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With integrative & functional medicine training, as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
Welcome to Klarity Wellness! My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With integrative & functional medicine training, as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
(314) 226-1120 View (314) 226-1120
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 64068

< 10

Psychiatrists in 64068 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use
100% Medication Management
67% Addiction

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 64068 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 64068?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.